I’m not trying to bring you down…quite the opposite, in fact. I’m just drawing a line between fantasy and reality. And the reality is that you’re seeing a fantasy: the models and movie stars don’t look like that in real life. As supermodel Cindy Crawford once quipped: “Even I don’t wake up looking like Cindy Crawford.”

But there’s more to it than the expertly applied makeup, hairstyles, lighting, and designer clothes…the babes that stare back at you from the pages of Cosmo and Vogue have yet another advantage that you don’t: Adobe Photoshop.

You may have already heard the term: “Photoshopping” – but unless you actually own and use the program, it’s tough to appreciate what it can accomplish.

I’m a Photoshop user, although I’m a rank amateur…entering the world of Adobe Photoshop is like walking into a library – no matter how much effort you put into it, you’ll never be able to take it all in. I’ve used the program to create some pretty cool graphics for e-books, although I’ve barely scratched the surface of managing photo transformations that look realistic. I’ve learned enough and seen enough, however, to truly appreciate the artistry that goes into it.

The sad thing is that there’s nothing wrong with the women who posed for these pics – they’re all normally attractive and in good shape. Yet they look almost hideous next to their “idealized” selves.

Why do the-powers-that-be do this? Ultimately, it’s about creating insecurity, which drives the sale of advertised products. How else are they going to get women to buy all those cosmetics/books/hair care products/diet pills/etc.? But it only breeds a sense of frustration when it comes to trying to lose weight and get in shape. Buying into it is like chasing rainbows: you can try it if you like, but it’s nah gah happen.

The moral of the story: don’t base your body image and aspirations on illusions. Instead focus on being the best you that you can be – that’s more than good enough.

LOL – I’m not in the same league as these guys. I can do masking, tweak color and lighting, and remove/de-emphasize small flaws (like a forehead shine or blemish), but that’s about it. I couldn’t give you larger biceps or shave 10 years off your face and make it look natural – mind you, it can be done, but I don’t have the time/patience to learn.

You probably don’t want that anyway. Personally, the last thing I’d want is for someone to see my pic, then see the real me and think “OMFG!!!” 😀

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Since 1999, UltimateFatBurner has been one of the few sites on the Net dedicated to bringing you unbiased and science-based reviews of all your favorite (and not so favorite) diet, weight loss and sport supplements.

Unbiased, of course, means we’re not owned by a supplement company or affiliated with anyone in particular.